The Kingdom of Siam is not just the land of smiles or a thousand temples, but also a golfing paradise with world-class courses. Golf in Thailand has been played for nearly a century, though its real boom came during the country's economic surge in the 1990s. The vast majority of courses were designed during this period by renowned architects such as Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Robert Trent Jones Jr., Pete Dye and many others. Indeed, with over two hundred courses playable year-round thanks to the sunny, tropical climate, both professional and amateur golfers find plenty to satisfy their passion.

No matter where you are in Thailand, opportunities to play golf abound. For European visitors, winter in Europe is the best season to travel to Thailand (November to February), when average temperatures hover around 25 degrees Celsius.

Thailand is home to over 120 high-quality golf courses, some considered among Asia's finest and featuring luxurious facilities. Among the main prestigious destinations are over thirty major clubs in and around Bangkok, around thirty to the west toward Pattaya, and about twenty further south in Hua Hin, 6 in Phuket at the far south, and finally 8 in the North, in the Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai regions. Plenty of ways to keep your vacation "golfically" occupied while discovering the cultural richness of this country. Most clubs feature a practice range, clubhouse, and pro shop where you can rent equipment. Some even combine golf with luxury hotels, residences, or golf schools.

Wherever you are, Thais play golf. Their Asian neighbors—Japanese, Taiwanese, Korean, and Chinese from Hong Kong and Singapore—come in large numbers to enjoy the space and sunshine that's scarce in their own countries, since in Thailand golf is played year-round. American, Australian, and of course European professional and amateur golfers know this destination well, whether for vacation or during major international tournaments. Once reserved for an elite, golf and major tournaments now have a solid presence in newspapers and on television, particularly with appearances by Tiger Woods, whose mother is Thai.

A Brief History: How Golf Came to Thailand

Golf was introduced to the country in 1924 by King Rama V, an avid enthusiast of the sport. He built the Royal Hua Hin Golf Club near his summer residence in the Hua Hin region.

Today: A Popular Golf Vacation Destination

Today, Thailand has established itself as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts. The country boasts 260 courses spread throughout. The most spectacular layouts are located near major tourist attractions and draw thousands of golfers each year.

Golf vacations in Thailand cater to all preferences. You can choose between sprawling courses, demanding championship layouts, or unique parkland and links-style designs. As you play, you'll have the chance to admire tropical biodiversity under pleasant skies.

Why Choose a Golf Holiday in Thailand?

The Landscape: What strikes visitors in Thailand is the wide-open space and idyllic setting—lush, tropical vegetation, water everywhere, and stunning backdrops surrounded by mountains or bordered by the sea.

Some courses are known for their unique settings, such as the Royal Thai Air Force Golf Club located on the grounds of Bangkok's International Airport, nestled between the civilian and military runways. Similarly, in the North, the MaeMoh Golf Club, owned by EGAT (Thailand's national power authority), sits on the site of former coal mines of the power station.

Facilities: A large majority of clubs offer luxurious facilities with restaurants, fitness centers, golf shops, and frequently hotels and golf schools. Major courses—whether near the capital, on the southern coast, or in the northern mountains—offer exceptional accommodation options.

The Caddies: Caddies, always young women, are mandatory. They know every golfing trick, including how to read the greens, advice that can keep unnecessary strokes off your scorecard—tips worth rewarding with a gratuity.

Refreshment Stops: Throughout your round, approximately every two or three holes, you'll find a rest area or beverage stand where you can quench your thirst, enjoy a slice of fresh pineapple or mango, snack on chicken skewers, or taste a crisp papaya salad.

Golf Carts: All courses offer golf carts, a well-established habit among Asian golfers. You can certainly drive an electric cart, but on most courses you must stay on the paths, which sometimes makes the cart less convenient. Some of the most prestigious courses, such as Santiburi Samui Country Club, require their use.

Top 5 Most Beautiful Golf Courses in Thailand

Phuket

Phuket is famous for hosting some of Thailand's most exceptional golf courses. Among them stands the Red Mountain Golf Club, renowned for its breathtaking panoramas and stunning vistas. Be sure to also visit the Blue Canyon Country Club, a celebrated layout that has welcomed golf legends such as Ernie Els and Tiger Woods.

Chiang Mai

Discover the natural beauty and fascinating culture of northern Thailand by golfing in Chiang Mai and its surroundings. Test your skills on the 27-hole course at Chiang Mai Highlands Golf Club, one of Asia's finest. You can also choose from several other world-class courses in the region, such as the 18-hole championship course at Mae Jo Golf Club & Resorts.

Hua Hin

In the west of the country, explore the Black Mountain Golf Club, located just outside Hua Hin. It features a magnificent 27-hole championship course. For golfers seeking a real test, the layouts at Banyan Golf Club and Springfield Royal Country Club also offer challenging greens and spectacular views.

Pattaya

Even seasoned golfers will find challenges on the remarkable parkland course of St. Andrews 2000 Golf Club in Pattaya. With its spectacular design and demanding hazards, this layout promises a memorable experience. Similarly, the 18-hole course at Chatrium Golf Resort Soi Dao Chanthaburi offers an exceptional golf retreat. From the very first tee, views of the surrounding mountains captivate, while the course, designed by Denis Griffiths, will test your golfing prowess.

Bangkok

Bangkok attracts with its many upscale golf courses. Among them, Siam Country Club features two layouts. The Old Course is recognized as one of Thailand's finest golf courses. The Plantation Course stands out as Asia's first triple-green course. Nearby, Laem Chabang Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, offers a challenging layout just outside Bangkok's gates.

The Best Time to Play

The best time to play golf in Thailand is during the cool season, from November to February. During this period, the climate is pleasant with moderate temperatures and a refreshing breeze, ideal for playing without suffering from intense heat. The courses are green and well-maintained. Avoid the rainy season from May to October, as unpredictable rainfall can disrupt your rounds.